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Exploring Malta’s Gothic rock scene

If you’re in the mood for something less mainstream and veering towards something purely alternative… then this is something for you!

Before you get scared away into visions of darkness and evil creatures, it would be a good thing to set the record straight. The genre “Goth” refers to a whole spectrum of the so-called underground scene. This brings with it sub-genres like dark wave, gothic, EBM (electronic body music), industrial and more.

Gothic rock music, gothic fashion, gothic architecture and gothic literature, are all a source of positive inspiration to people who are as cultured and artistic as the typical (good) girl or boy next door. Wearing black is just a strong statement, reflecting this passionate element, and definitely nothing to do with the doom and gloom – as is the misguided perception. Goth is not a religion; it is not about piercing or tattoos.

In this way, the term “Goths” is an artistic definition for those who are inclined towards this genre, and thus should be admired for following their personal statement and not frowned upon by society.

So let us spread the knowledge… Gothic rock is a genre that originated in the late 70s. The genre itself was defined as a separate movement from punk rock during the early 80s. Gothic rock artists dealt with dark themes and intellectual movements such as gothic horror, romanticism, existential philosophy and nihilism. Notable gothic rock bands include Joy Division and Siouxsie & the Banshees, Bauhaus, The Cure, The Sisters of Mercy, The Mission, Sex Gang Children, The Cult, Killing Joke, Skeletal Family, Specimen, and Alien Sex Fiend Fields of the Nephilim, Rosetta Stone, London After Midnight and The Wake.

Most of the early gothic rock bands were from the UK, followed strongly by the US and Germany. This music genre then evolved into a broader goth subculture that led the way to goth clubs, goth fashions and goth literature. This subculture has influenced various artists, musicians and photographers whose work is based on mystic, morbid and romantic motifs, with a spectrum varying from erotic artwork to romantic images of vampires or ghosts. This is all very alluring to the open-minded and to those who appreciate beauty in all its forms.

The Batcave, in London, is one of the most popular clubs around, renowned for its prototype décors; using props like swirling smoke, rubber bats and cobwebs. Regulars adopted a symbiotical dress-code which lead to its fashion; black hair, dark eyeliner, black fingernails, black period-style clothing. Piercings and tattoos may enhance the gothic glamour, yet they are a personal choice. Styles are influenced from the Victorian or medieval period, with crucifixes or ankhs. A synonymous market for Goth fashion would be Camden Town in London.

In Malta, the goth scene is on a much smaller scale. However, taking into consideration the size of our rock, it is as flourishing as any alternative scene. Regular dance clubs have never catered for this subculture, therefore goth/new wave nights have been held in alternative spots since the 1990s. So don’t miss out on being part of a great night of gothic rock, new wave, synthpop and electro music, with an equally enthralling crowd…

Tickets at only e5 (including a free drink). More information on gothic music, music videos, concerts and events is listed on http://newromanticsmalta.bravehost.com/Alternativerock.